I first discovered horseback riding through summer pony camp at Elvenstar Farms and instantly found my passion. After that summer, I signed up for lessons at age 7 and have trained with Elvenstar ever since. Throughout my riding journey, I’ve had the support and guidance of my trainer Rachel Mahowald who has helped me grow and challenge me as a rider and a person. What started as a summer activity turned into a lifelong passion and a place where I’ve learned grit, dedication and the value of hard work.
My competition highlights of 2025 include Champion LAHJA Gold 3’3 Medal Final, Champion Flintridge Riding Club Open Equitation 1.0m, 4th place SCHSA Challenge 3’3 Medal Final, 6th place PCHA Horsemanship 14/U 3’3 Medal Final, and 10th place CPHA Foundation 14/U 3’3 Medal Final.
In 2024 my highlights consist of Champion LAHJA Silver 3’ Medal Final, Reserve Champion LAHJA Gold 3’3 Medal Final, 5th place SCHSA 17/U 3’ Medal Final, 9th place SCHSA Challenge 3’3 Medal Final, and winning the LAHJA Horsemastership Scholarship Award.
In previous years, I received Champion PCHA Jr/Am Horsemanship 2’9 Medal Final, Reserve Champion CPHA Child/Adult 3’ Medal Final, Reserve Champion LAHJA Bronze 2’9 Medal Final and 3rd place SCHSA 12/U 3’ Medal Final.
I am so excited for this competition year as I’m determined to strive for even more achievements. I’m currently a rising Junior at Huntington Beach High School maintaining a 3.7 GPA; which includes Honors and AP Courses. I enjoy helping out at the barn and hacking all of the horses. I love to spend most of my time there as it is my happiest place to be! It is a dream of mine to join a NCEA Equestrian Team. All of my hard work and dedication is focused on being able to join a competitive team that shares my love of riding. I am grateful that this sport has taught me life lessons beyond physically but mentally too, and continues to everyday.
~ Shelby Steinberg